The School of Guayusa is a natural healing arts project based in the Amazon of central Ecuador, and founded by the Amazanga community. The Amazanga are a group of indigenous healers and conservationists of Quichuar descent who are dedicated to the protection of nature and the preservation of indigenous culture.
Guayusa (why-you-suh), is a sacred tree of the Amazon rainforest. Of the holly genus, the leaves of guayusa (a cousin of yerba mate) are brewed daily into a tea and shared communally by various indigenous tribes of the northern Amazon. Traditionally, guayusa is shared in the early morning, before sunrise and while sitting around the community fireplace. This is a traditional time for the elders to teach, tell stories and impart wisdom.
Born from the earth's dreaming, the School of Guayusa has always existed: it is the ancient school of nature, natural wisdom and ecological balance. The current incarnation of the School of Guayusa has been formed to create an international study and learning center where earth wisdom can be shared and preserved for all.
The School of Guayusa is dedicated to the preservation of the healing arts of nature through the teaching and sharing of natural healing methods, ancestral wisdom, herbal medicines and shamanic traditions on both local and international levels. In addition to study and healing visits to the Amazon, the School of Guayusa offers workshops and seminars in the U.S. and other countries abroad through its traveling medicine school.
The School of Guayusa is directed in conjunction with the Wanduk and Samay Foundations, indigenous founded non-profits that are managed by the Amazanga community. The School of Guayusa and the Amazanga community are located in the jungles outside of Puyo, Ecuador, about four hours south of Quito. For questions, comments, or to schedule a visit, please write to us at: schoolofguayusa@gmail.com
